Janggu: The Sequel to 'Wind' Returns After 16 Years with Jung Woo as Director and Lead

The sequel to the film 'Wind', titled 'Janggu', is set to hit theaters after 16 years, with Jung Woo stepping up as both the lead actor and director.

The press screening for 'Janggu' (directed by Oh Sung-ho and Jung Woo) took place on the 16th at the Yongsan I'Park Mall CGV in Seoul. The event was attended by Jung Woo, Jung Soo-jung, Shin Seung-ho, Jo Beom-gyu, Kwon So-hyun, and director Oh Sung-ho.

'Janggu' follows the humorous and passionate journey of an aspiring actor, Janggu (played by Jung Woo), who perseveres despite numerous audition rejections. The character Janggu, originally from 'Wind', returns to the screen after 16 years.

Jung Woo, taking on the role of director for the first time, expressed, “While there were various physical challenges and pressures during filming, I actually found it enjoyable. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work on a project in such a challenging film market.”

The film is an autobiographical story for Jung Woo. He shared, “I was happy and grateful to be able to make a film out of my own story, enjoying each day of filming.” He added, “The project started from personal experiences, so it holds a special place in my heart. Although none of the characters are based on real people, Min-hee is a symbolic figure that many men might consider a 'wannabe'. The character Jang-jae, played by Shin Seung-ho, was inspired by a real friend.”

Shin Seung-ho plays Janggu's friend, Jang-jae, and shared great chemistry with his senior, Jung Woo, who is 14 years older. Shin Seung-ho commented, “If it weren't for 'Janggu', I wouldn't have had the chance to speak informally to senior Jung Woo. He always made the set comfortable, for which I am thankful.” He also expressed satisfaction, saying, “Compared to recent projects, there weren't many shooting days, so I looked forward to each day of filming.”

Jung Woo revealed, “I auditioned for various films in the past, including one for 'Silmido' that required swimming scenes. The monologue in the film is adapted from actual auditions I attended.” He added, “One of the thoughts that crossed my mind during filming was that my first film audition was for director Jang Hang-jun. Performing an audition scene in front of him for a key scene in our film was an emotional experience.”

He particularly noted, “Actor Jo Beom-gyu was cast through auditions, excluding recognition, for many supporting roles in our film. He was cast as 'Kkang-naeng-i', the role with the most lines, after four auditions and a camera test that took 3-4 hours. In a way, Beom-gyu might be the real 'Janggu' of our film.”

Jo Beom-gyu, who plays Janggu's roommate, Kkang-naeng-i, joined the cast through auditions. He remarked, “I could see Jung Woo's passion. I felt I would gain a lot from working on this film.”

Jung Woo reflected, “I first encountered the character 'Janggu' in my debut lead role in 'Wind'. It's a character that's hard to separate from my life and holds significant meaning in my acting career.” He continued, “I've used the nickname 'Janggu' since childhood, and having played the same character 16 years ago adds depth to its meaning. I hope audiences will reminisce about those times as well.”

'Janggu' is set to be released on the 22nd.

Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr